Freedom from Fear

We are not to go to sleep with fear in our hearts. Our world is filled with many things that bring fear. Murder, floods, robberies, wars, famines, and diseases abound bringing fear to many. But this is not so with the children of God. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

All through the Bible we are told to not be afraid. At the Red Sea Moses told the Israelites, who were facing a no way out situation: “Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord” (Exodus 14:13-14). Joshua, who was chosen to lead God’s people was told: “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid” (Joshua 1:9). Elisha when facing an overwhelming enemy, encouraged his servant by saying: “Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.” (2 Kings 6:16) Joseph was instructed by an angel to “fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife” (Matthew 1:20). Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, who was believing in Jesus to heal his daughter was told to: “Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole” (Luke 8:50). Paul when about to face shipwreck and certain death was told: “Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee” (Acts 27:24).

How can we live free from fear in the face of the evils of our world? This verse gives the answer. The word “sweet” comes from the Hebrew word “awrab,” and means “to be or become surety or to give a pledge.” Think about it, God Himself is our guarantee or our pledge that everything is going to be alright! Truly we can indeed live this day without fear, and when the night falls we can go to bed and our sleep “shall be sweet!”